RESTON, VA -- SNM, an international scientific and professional organization of more than 16,000 members, has elected a distinguished committee of researchers to direct its molecular imaging initiatives. Henry F. VanBrocklin, Ph.D., professor of radiology and director of radiopharmaceutical research at the University of California, San Francisco, will serve as president of SNM's Molecular Imaging Center of Excellence (MICoE). Carolyn J. Anderson, Ph.D., a professor of radiology, biochemistry and chemistry at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Mo., will serve as MICoE vice president. Both VanBrocklin and Anderson will serve in their respective leadership positions through 2010, at which time Anderson will assume the presidency.

"Since the Molecular Imaging Center of Excellence was formed nearly three years ago, we have made significant advances in raising awareness of molecular imaging and providing leadership and resources for those practicing or thinking of pursuing careers in the multidisciplinary field of molecular imaging," said VanBrocklin. "MICoE members, working together to propel molecular imaging into clinical practice, will continue to provide resources to stimulate new research, facilitate clinical translation and acceptance and foster an environment for education and training in the field."

In addition to supporting awards and grants through SNM's Education and Research Foundation, MICoE develops educational materials and sponsors and organizes workshops, symposia, colloquia and other educational forums in which professionals convene to pursue educational opportunities and share research. Members of the molecular imaging community recently met at SNM's 55th Annual Meeting, held June 14-18 in New Orleans, La.
"MICoE members will focus on providing high-quality educational opportunities and guidelines, conducting outreach to scientific, physician and patient groups and advocating for important issues, including research funding," said Anderson. "It is an honor to be elected to serve as a leader of the MICoE. Over the next four years, I look forward to working with members to facilitate the use of molecular imaging in advancing the understanding, diagnosis, treatment and management of disease."

Todd E. Peterson, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the department of radiology and radiological sciences and director of nuclear imaging in the Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tenn. will serve as MICoE secretary/treasurer, also through 2010.

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